On the first part of the album (CD1 , digital tracks 1-14 ) trumpeter Paul Schwingenschlögl and guitarist Jan Weber extend, process and distort the natural sounds of their instruments by using prepared objects and electronic effects. The band explain “This massive sound concoction – occasionally interrupted by lyrical cantilenas – encounters the pure double bass sound of Udo Betz. His sonorous ostinati are the linking element between largely laid out tonal layers and piercing sound explosions”.

The early ECM albums of Nils Petter Molvær, and the work of Eivind Aarset, as well as the music of Supersilent, are comparators and reference points for the overall sound of the more “electric” parts of the album. With a typical European sound the trio create memorable ambient explorations with delicate passages counterbalanced by Weber’s guitar which explores progressive rock, and beyond into heavier areas. Moments of pure beauty contrast with layers of intense interplay with the guitar in ascendance. Schwingenschlögl offers a wide variety of sounds from his horn occasionally dallying with free jazz elements, not unlike Lester Bowie in places.

The lack of percussion is not an issue. The trio can create a storm of noise which has its’ own inherent rhythm with Betz offering an anchor for the other two participants to work with. Across this first selection the trio engage in a variety of differing styles and approaches creating a fascinating sound.

The second part of the album (CD2, starting with track 15 in the digital version) is mostly recorded acoustically. Weber plays a concert guitar and Schwingenschlögl works with the acoustic sound of his trumpet and flugelhorn without any effects. The pure double bass sound from Betz accentuates the serenity of the second CD. The guitar used and its sound reflects, to some degree, a spanish influence, which is echoed in some of the titles. The trumpet takes more of a lead melody role in this context and the overall sound is a little more abstract in places, but also very playful in others. The overall feel moves from the north to the south of Europe.

This remarkable debut demonstrates a wide range of technique, reflects a broad knowledge of the history of jazz, and an impressive approach with two distinct sets of music.